"Kellen's mother Nancy got in touch immediately and a few months later my mum flew to meet her. Six months after that I was well enough to visit too," he said. "It was an emotional meeting and as Nancy put her hand on my chest to feel Kellen's heart beating inside me, I saw Erin for the first time.

"We locked eyes - and I was smitten. Erin felt the connection too but she tried to dismiss it, thinking I was too young.

"She took me sightseeing for the weekend and we felt so comfortable together, like we'd known each other our entire lives. I visited twice more and felt the same, but we were both dating other people."

Kellen Roberts donated his heart after he was killed in a drunken brawl. Photo: Facebook

School assistant dismissed the connection as a "teenage crush" and the pair lost contact for five-years. They reconnected on Facebook in 2010.

"We were both single for the first time and everything just fell into place," Mr Rabinowitz said.

"I know he (Kellen) brought us together and I know he is watching over us.

"All of the family tell me stories about Kellen. He is always in my thoughts - and obviously in my heart. He was a great guy - he always looked out for people. Through him, I hope I can do the same. If I was to meet him today, it would be like meeting my other half.

"I was now forever connected with this young man who sacrificed his life and chose to save mine.

"He is my hero, my guardian angel and I will be forever grateful for his decision to donate his organs."